Navi Mumbai: On a night that redefined Indian cricket, Jemimah Rodrigues’ unbeaten 127 lit up the DY Patil Stadium as India scripted one of the most memorable chases in Women’s World Cup history — toppling the mighty Australians by five wickets to storm into the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 final.
The 25-year-old Mumbaikar’s classy yet courageous knock not only ended Australia’s 15-match unbeaten streak but also earned her praise from some of cricket’s biggest names — from Virat Kohli to Sachin Tendulkar, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Rishabh Pant, who hailed the “Women in Blue” for their grit and glory.
“A true display of resilience, belief, and passion” — Virat Kohli
Leading the chorus of admiration, former India captain Virat Kohli posted on X (formerly Twitter): “What a victory by our team over a mighty opponent like Australia. A great chase by the girls and a standout performance by Jemimah in a big game. A true display of resilience, belief, and passion. Well done, Team India!”
Kohli’s words echoed the sentiment of millions as Jemimah’s knock — her third international century and first in a World Cup — carried India home in a record chase of 339 runs with nine balls to spare.
Tendulkar, Gill, Pant, and Shami join the applause
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar called it a “fabulous victory,” saluting Jemimah and captain Harmanpreet Kaur for leading from the front.
“Well done @JemiRodrigues and @ImHarmanpreet for showing the way. Keep the tricolour flying high!” he wrote.
India’s men’s team captain Shubman Gill and vice-captain Rishabh Pant also celebrated the triumph, calling the performance “absolute grit” and “a match full of heart, fight and belief.”
Pacer Mohammed Shami termed the chase “simply outstanding,” while Ravichandran Ashwin highlighted Jemimah’s personal comeback story:
“From being left out earlier in the World Cup to taking your team to the final — take a bow, Jemimah 👏. A true inspiration.”
“A blessing in disguise” — Jemimah reflects on Harman’s dismissal
Speaking after being named Player of the Match, Jemimah revealed how Harmanpreet’s dismissal at 89 spurred her focus.
“When Harry di got out, it was like a blessing in disguise. It reminded me that I had to finish it for the team,” she said.
Her partnership of 167 runs with Harmanpreet turned the game on its head, dismantling Australia’s bowling and belief alike.
A win for every Indian fan
The victory wasn’t just about numbers — it was a statement. It was about belief under pressure, composure in chaos, and the rise of a team that no longer plays in shadows.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Women’s handle summed it up perfectly:
“#Final, HERE WE COME! 🇮🇳 A historic Navi Mumbai night!”
Road to the Final
With confidence sky-high, Team India will now face South Africa in the Women’s World Cup Final on November 2, a contest being billed as “The Clash of Titans.”
Whether they lift the trophy or not, this victory has already given Indian sport a new anthem — one of fearless women, unstoppable dreams, and a nation’s pride painted in blue.
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